Designing a Culturally Adapted Perioperative Mental Health Intervention for Older Black Male Surgical Patients: A Community-Based Participatory Study

Objectives Anxiety and depression are common in older surgical patients and impair recovery. Black patients, particularly men, face compounded disparities in both mental health care and surgical outcomes, with distinct gender-specific needs. This study examined perioperative mental health stressors and care needs among older Black male surgical patients to inform the development of a culturally tailored intervention. Design, setting, and participants Sixteen focus groups were conducted with 15 Black male patients, aged ≥50 who had undergone surgery at a large academic medical center. Discussions explored perioperative experiences, mental health challenges, and preferences for a culturally responsive wellness program. Inductive thematic analysis was used. A community engagement studio provided additional feedback on proposed intervention components. Results Participants reported significant emotional distress, especially anxiety and fear, magnified by cultural stigma, mistrust of the medical system, and reluctance to use medication. Common coping strategies included faith, family, and peer connections. Participants strongly endorsed the need for patient-centered, culturally sensitive support. Recommended intervention components included psychoeducation, psychotherapy, peer support, and medication counseling, with optional components incorporating family or faith-based support. Flexibility in delivery and trust-building were viewed as essential. Conclusion Mental health is a critical yet under-addressed component of surgical recovery for older Black males. This study demonstrates the urgency of addressing perioperative anxiety and distress through culturally tailored, trust-centered care. An integrated intervention that combines psychoeducation, psychotherapy, and peer support may reduce stigma, strengthen mental health engagement, and improve surgical outcomes and long-term well-being.